This morning we discuss a painful and sensitive subject: must children mourn, by sitting Shiva, for a parent who was abusive to them. We present several scenarios, with different conclusions. Then we present the opinion of Rabbi Asher Weiss, and the approach I would suggest, based on Rabbi Moshe Isserles and Aruch HaShulchan. Of course, these tragic questions must be dealt with on an individual basis, but these are broad guidelines in how to approach this from the point of view of Jewish Law and Jewish Values.

Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship.

Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on:

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/adathyoutube

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Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha:

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